World-class Universal Theme Park and Resort Planned for the UK

Universal Destinations & Experiences, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal, intends to build and operate the company’s first-ever Universal branded theme park and resort in the United Kingdom, located in Bedford.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has approved our request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO).

While there are still further steps to complete, including a statutory parliamentary review period, this decision represents another important milestone for the project.

Conceptual artists rendering

The plans will deliver an entertainment resort complex featuring a world-class theme park with several themed lands, visitor accommodation, as well as a range of retail, dining and entertainment uses.

The development will have a transformative impact on Bedford and the UK economy; it will generate nearly £50 billion of economic benefit and create 28,000 jobs. At opening, the entertainment resort complex would be one of the largest employers in the region, with approximately 80% of employees expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

The project will also help deliver several long sought after transportation upgrades including an expanded Wixams railway station, direct slip roads from the A421 and other local road improvements.

PROJECT UPDATE

We are committed to sharing progress as well as what to expect including job opportunities and how local businesses and suppliers can potentially work with us. Read our latest update to the community below.

December 2025 Local Letter

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Media Factsheet

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Your questions answered

1. What is the status of the project?

In December 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) approved our request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO).

While there are still further steps to complete, including a statutory parliamentary review period, this decision represents another important milestone for the project.

2. Where are your other parks?

Universal Destinations & Experiences has five branded theme parks and resorts across the globe, including Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Singapore. Each of these world-class resorts feature thrilling, immersive attractions, exceptional hotel and resort options, unique merchandise and culinary experiences as well as live and virtual entertainment.

3. What rides and experiences can we expect to see?

We recognise the tremendous excitement our developments bring; however, it will still be some time before we can share further details on the featured attractions and experiences.

4. When would you start construction?

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has approved our request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO).

While there are still further steps to complete, including a statutory parliamentary review period, this decision represents another important milestone for the project. Our on-site activity will now gradually start to increase and we will share more information about project activity and construction in the new year.

Get in touch

For all media enquiries: uprcorpcomm@uniparks.com

For those interested in registering for future job opportunities

For those interested in registering for our suppliers list

For all other enquiries: universalukproject@londoncommunications.co.uk

Freephone: 0800 307 7141

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